Macao, China: World-class golf will make a welcome return to the Macao Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China next month.

Following a six-year absence from the calendar, the SJM Macao Open will celebrate its 20th edition at the Macau Golf and Country Club from October 12-15.

Rising Australian star Min Woo Lee will be one of the headline names in the 144-strong field for the US$1 million event that will act as the 18th leg of the 2023 Asian Tour.

In a further boost, SJM Resorts, SA (SJM) have signed a three-year agreement with tournament promoter and organiser IMG to be the title sponsor. SJM is a leading owner, operator and developer of premium integrated entertainment resorts in Macao.

The Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government is the co-organiser of the SJM Macao Open which is sanctioned by the Asian Tour and the Macao Golf Association.

Cho Minn Thant, Asian Tour CEO and Commissioner, said: “The return of the Macao Open is hugely significant for the Asian Tour, as it has played such an important role in our history for over two decades.

“Our members are excited to see it back on the schedule and look forward to turning out in force to soak up the atmosphere of competing in this special event.

“Our thanks go to SJM Resorts for paving the way for the event’s return, together with the Sports Bureau of Macao, the Macao Golf Association, Macau Golf and Country Club and IMG.”

Pun Weng Kun, President of the Sports Bureau of Macao SAR Government, said: “We are extremely grateful for the full support of the title sponsor SJM Resorts, as well as the commitment of the Asian Tour and the Macao Golf Association, in reinstating the Macao Open.

“The Sports Bureau continues to introduce various large-scale sports events, using sports as a platform to enhance Macau’s image as a world centre of tourism and leisure. By combining sports, culture and tourism, the branding and impact of sports events are enhanced while promoting the development of Macau’s sports industry.”

Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM, said: “We are extremely excited to see the homecoming of the Macao Open. As we tee-off to a three-year partnership, we are ready to roll out the red carpet to the world’s golf legends as well as welcome overseas golf enthusiasts to our hometown.

“The event will not only bring Macau to the forefront of the global golf community but will also give our local youngsters the chance to participate in PGA-calibre competitions. The SJM Macao Open is a highlight of our annual international sports calendar curated to showcase Macau as a true hub of sporting excellence and drive the dynamic fusion of ‘Sports + Tourism’ developments for Macau.”

Among those looking to add their name to the roll of honour that includes European Ryder Cup heroes Lee Westwood and Colin Montgomerie is Australian Lee.

“This will be my first time competing in the SJM Macao Open and I’m really looking forward to it. I’ve heard so many great things about the event and the venue. Hopefully I’ll be able to add my name to the illustrious list of winners,” said the 25-year-old younger brother of LPGA star Minjee Lee.

Charles Lo, President of Macao Golf Association, said: “After a lapse of five years, the return of Macao Open is something we’re all looking forward to tremendously. The tournament will certainly provide a huge boost to the local golf industry.”

Grant Slack, EVP & Managing Director, Golf Events of IMG, added: “It has been a pleasure to play our part in the staging of the SJM Macao Open over the years. We are very excited about the 2023 edition, and it is our aim to make it a memorable occasion befitting the 20th milestone.”